Extension Arm Hub Rotation Control With Floating Stop Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical device suspension systems face limitations in rotational control, often restricting the extension arm's rotation to less than 360° and requiring multiple stacked components, which increases the volumetric footprint and complicates integration.
Innovation Solution
A rotational control mechanism that includes a guide channel member with an elongated cavity and a floating stop, allowing the extension arm to rotate at least 360° while reducing the number of components and footprint, thus simplifying assembly and service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple stacked components are used for rotational control, then rotational limitation function is achieved, but device complexity and volumetric footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple rotational control functions into a single integrated hub assembly. The hub incorporates both the brake assembly for friction-based rotational control and the latch mechanism for positional locking, eliminating the need for multiple stacked components. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable rotational control through coordinated operation of the integrated mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rotational range is limited to below 360°, then collision prevention is achieved, but installation options are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic rotational control system where the brake assembly can be selectively engaged or disengaged, and the latch mechanism can be selectively activated or deactivated. This allows the system to adapt between limited rotation modes (for collision prevention) and full 360° rotation modes (for installation flexibility), providing versatility in installation options while maintaining protection against harmful collisions when needed.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed stop features are used for rotational control, then rotation limitation is achieved, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-latching and self-adjusting mechanisms where the hub automatically engages with the latch feature at predetermined positions and the brake assembly self-adjusts to maintain friction contact. These self-service characteristics reduce the need for complex external control systems and simplify assembly, as the mechanisms automatically perform rotational control functions without requiring additional actuators or complex mounting procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical device support system including a shaft, extension arm, and floating stop. A guide channel member is fixed to the shaft and includes an elongated cavity that defines first and second contact faces at its opposite ends. A hub of the extension arm is pivotably mounted for a range of at least 360 degrees rotation about a rotation axis of the shaft. The at least 360 degrees rotation range is based on a compound of a first rotation range and a second rotation range. The first rotation range is defined by a fixed stop of the hub configured to move between first and second contact faces of a radially outer portion of the floating stop. The second rotation range is defined by a radially inner portion of the floating stop configured to move between the first and second contact faces of the elongated cavity of the guide channel member.